Bushnell Elite 8x43

[erikschupp]

Hello,
I just recently bought some Busnell Elite 8x43 bins on ebay for $489 dollars. I know they are not as good as the top 3 (Swarovski, Leica and Zeiss). But if you compare performace to price payed, how do you think they stack up? Thank, Erik

 

[betelgeuse]

I have heard the high end stuff is great. I have never tried the Elite binocs. Let us know if you compare them to any of the others.

 

[erikschupp]

After getting the Bushnell Elites I was very displeased with them. The center 60% field of view was absolutily stunning................. but the outer 40% was horrible. I sent them back the next day for a full refund. So I took the money and bought the Swarovski 7x42 SLC for $979 at Cabela's. Let me be the first to say the Elites are not even in the same playing field as the SLCs. The SLCs are truely amazing! The edge to edge clarity is first rate and they are as bright as all get out in low light. The Swaro's will be great hunting binoculars (this is what I will be using them for, 7 power is all you need for the Indiana woods).

 

[betelgeuse]

Thanks for following up. 7 x 42s will give you awesome light gathering capability. I had some 7 x 42 Bausch and Lombs ( $400 ) and I replaced them with some Kahles 10 x 42s( $800) and the B&Ls were still a tiny bit brighter.

 

[erikschupp]

betelgeuse,

The more I look through my Swarovski's the happier I get. I almost bought the Kahles 8x42, but I got a pretty good deal on the Swaro's. Swarovski owns Kahles........ I heard they use the same glass, just different coatings. Do you know anything about that?

 

[betelgeuse]

They are owned by the same parent company. I am not sure if they use the same glass. I am going to compare the Kahles to my friends SLCs to see how they stack up. I have looked through the Swaros and remember them being sharper and brighter, but I need to compare them side by side.

 

[erikschupp]

betelgeuse,

Have you compared the two binoculars together yet? Take care, Erik

 

[betelgeuse]

Haven't had a chance to compare them yet. I will post the results when I do.

I'll bet you can see in the dark with those 7x42 Swaros !!

 

[erikschupp]

October 1st they will get their first true test (opening day for Indiana Bow hunting.... I can't wait). I had a several pair of Nikon Monarch 10x42 (long story, had to send several pair back. Nikon Monarch--not very good quality) and there is no comparison. I will give you a detailed field test of the low light conditions of the Swaro's.